Business Formation in Minnesota
Before filing, check the Minnesota business name database to ensure the LLC’s name is available. Registering a business name provides protection backed by federal law. For small businesses operating locally this isn’t necessary.
You can change a business name by filing for an assumed name or submitting an amendment to the existing business’s legal name.
It costs $135 to file LLC Articles of Organization by mail and $155 online or in-person in Minnesota. You can file a $50 LLC name reservation by mail or a $55 one online or in-person.
Most states only require registering in the state you operate in.
Once you have potential names, check Minnesota’s registry to ensure availability.
A sole proprietorship does not need to register with the Secretary of State. However, if operating under a different name, file a $50 Certificate of Assumed Name.
You can reserve a business name online, in person or by mail using the Request for Reservation of Name form.
It costs $155 online or in person or $135 by mail to form a Minnesota LLC.
An assumed business name in Minnesota costs $30 by mail or $50 online or in person to register.
It costs $185 by mail ($205 online or in person) to register a foreign LLC in Minnesota.
Startup costs depend on the business model. Formation types have different costs, as do business taxes.
Minnesota Tax ID and Employer Identification Number are different.
Election and Voting Responsibilities
The Secretary of State operates the statewide voter registration system and canvasses and certifies election returns, among other election duties.
Cost Summary and Compliance
How much does it cost to register a business in Minnesota?
- LLC Articles of Organization: $155 (online/in-person), $135 (mail)
- LLC name reservation: $55 (online/in-person), $50 (mail)
- Assumed business name: $50 (online/in-person), $30 (mail)
- Foreign LLC registration: $205 (online/in-person), $185 (mail)
Minnesota ranks among the top states for business thanks to technology, innovation, education, and capital access.
To keep your LLC in compliance with Minnesota law, you must renew your registration with the Secretary of State each year, at no filing fee. You may also need to periodically renew business licenses or permits, with costs varying.
Note: Minnesota business licenses are not issued by the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State is responsible for business entity administration, for example Limited Liability Company formation. Minnesota doesn’t have a general business license at the state level. However, your business may need a state-level occupational license or municipal-level license or permit to operate.